Affirmative Action Act Will Build a Government Where Every Voice Counts- Vice President

The Vice President, Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating gender barriers by implementing affirmative action policies in the development of whole-government grants, procurement, and processes towards inclusive business growth.

She said this at the official launch of the Affirmative Action (Gender Equity) Act 2024, Act 1121, on Thursday in Accra.

She described the act as a key pillar of the research agenda built on the understanding that meaningful transformation cannot occur while over half of the population remains underrepresented in significant spaces.

“It lies at the heart of our national goal. Women are at the heart of the government’s economic transformation agenda, which is why our vision for a 24-hour economy aligns closely with their empowerment. This bold, forward-thinking policy aims to unlock new opportunities, create decent jobs, and modernize infrastructure and services around the globe,” she said.

The Vice President stated the government’s resolve to strengthen institutional capacity, raise awareness, and develop systems required to make the implementation of the law effective.

She called on traditional authorities, civil society, the government sector, the private sector, and the youth to help “build a government where every voice gets heard and every voice counts.”

On her part, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, noted that the purpose of the launch was to unveil and raise awareness on the Act that will position Ghana as a regional leader in gender equality, equity, and governance.

She stated that the Ministry has taken measures to constitute the Gender Equity Committee to guide and oversee the implementation of key provisions of the law.

She expressed appreciation to the President, Parliament, Development Partners, MDAs, MMDAs, AGRA Ghana, AWLN Ghana Chapter, AA Coalition, and related CSOs for their immense contributions in the passage and implementation of the law.

“We truly do not take your support for granted. Indeed, together, we can create a Ghana where every woman and every girl has the opportunity, platform, and power to lead,” she added.

Priscilla Osei-Wusu Nimako- ISD